Divine Peace Church Garland
Divine Peace Church Garland
Bringing peace today because of the certainty of eternal life tomorrow. Tune in to hear the latest sermons from Divine Peace Church Garland! Join us on Sundays Service 7:45am/10:30am Kingdom Kids/Bible Study 9:00am Facebook @ DivinePeaceChurchGarland Instagram @ DivinePeaceGarland Youtube @ DivinePeaceChurch 1346 Pleasant Valley Rd Garland, TX 75040
Episodes
Be Excited For God's Banquet
Don’t you hate it when someone has prepared an excellent meal, but travel delays mean that certain friends or relatives don’t get to enjoy it? Sometimes there are no leftovers, and an opportunity is lost.God has prepared an extraordinary spiritual meal for all people. It is received by faith. But it is not offered forever. The day will come when body and soul are separated, and those who do not believe in Jesus as their Savior will not share in his blessings. It’s the beginning of the end. Now is the time to issue the invitation!Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Be Excited For God's Banquet," to learn more!#faith #gospel #church #Christ #Christian #gospel #bible #God #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Live On Earth As Citizens Of Heaven
Sometimes people get braver when they realize they are nearing the end. They speak things they couldn’t or wouldn’t say before, even to the powerful, because they realize they have nothing to lose.The message of repentance and forgiveness of sins through Jesus’ death on the cross has many powerful enemies. Sometimes those enemies are religious people, rebellious spirits and heretics. Sometimes those enemies are people of this world who worship their own personal desires and glory in their shame.It doesn’t matter how powerful the enemies are. God persists in speaking his truth and drawing our eyes to his Son, who will help us persevere to the end and speak truth to power.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Live On Earth As Citizens Of Heaven," to learn more!#sermon #church #Christ #Christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
You Are Chosen To Be A Member of God's Family
Give a single bag of M&Ms to siblings in middle school and tell them to share. You will witness counting done with accounting-like precision. Each child will get an equal amount of candy because that is fair. That’s what’s expected! Human beings have an incredibly strong sense of fairness.That is why it can be so amazing when we see how God unexpectedly dispenses blessing and grace. The prophet Jonah was perplexed when he saw God’s mercy on a nation that was an enemy to Jonah’s people. Like Jonah, we need to stop expecting God to be fair. He does not give us what we deserve. Instead, in his grace, he shows us mercy. That’s amazing!Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "You Are Chosen To Be A Member of God's Family," to learn more!#faith #gospel #sermon #church #Christ #Christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Let Us Forgive As He Forgives!
Forgiveness does not come naturally to human beings. It is expected that humans will defend themselves, lash out when attacked, hold grudges, and bite back. So, when human beings hear that they are forgiven, they may even be suspicious or skeptical.Jesus tells a parable that contrasts the forgiveness of God with our own unforgiving sinful nature. God forgives our huge debt. Who can comprehend such unexpected mercy? Certainly not unmerciful servants, who refuse to forgive small debts. Have mercy on us, Lord, and teach us to forgive like you!Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Let Us Forgive As He Forgives!" to learn more!#faith #gospel #church #sermon #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Speak The Truth In Love
When danger strikes, most people instinctively move away from it. Fire, violence, accidents, and disasters trigger a natural desire to find protection and safety. Yet first responders do the opposite. Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics run toward the very scenes others are fleeing. They enter burning buildings, approach violent situations, and kneel beside the injured in chaotic moments. This response is unexpected because it goes against basic human instinct.Today God calls us to be spiritual first responders when we see people in trouble because of sin. Instead of self-preservation and comfort, we choose service.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Speak The Truth In Love," to learn more!#faith #gospel #sermon #church #Christ #christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Learn From The Weight Of Waiting
Some churches teach that if a person follows God, God responds by granting prosperity and peace, as would only be expected. Today we see how that is nonsense. The Bible explains that if we are part of the Church of God, we will have to bear crosses. Believers suffer in this world, sometimes just because they are believers.Why bother bearing our crosses for Jesus? We carry our crosses in gratitude for Jesus carrying his cross, one too heavy for us because it was weighted down with our sin. We carry our crosses because we know that in those moments of struggle, we are forced to turn to Christ and rely on his strength. This is the unexpected path, the one Jesus himself walked: the cross comes before the crown.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Learn From The Weight Of Waiting," to learn more!#sermon #Christ #Christian #God #Jesus #church #faith #gospel #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
You Will Be Saved
Jesus asked, “Who do you say I am?” It’s the most important question in the world, and it is a question every human being must answer. The expected answer may be dead wrong. Some in Jesus’ day thought he was John the Baptist. Some thought he was the prophet Elijah who had come back from the dead. Today plenty of people believe that Jesus existed. They think that Jesus was a wise teacher or a role model for love. Both answers are expected. Both miss the main point.Jesus is a real human being, the Son of Man. He is also Lord and Savior, the Son of the living God. This unexpected truth is the core of saving faith.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "You Will Be Saved," to learn more!#gospel #faith #church #sermon #Sunday #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Reach Out To Near And Far
“All are welcome!” Is that true at our church? Or is church meant only for people of the right heritage who behave the right way, “good church folk”? Is it conceivable that a stranger could walk into church unexpectedly and for some reason you would ask yourself, “What is someone like that doing here?” Or perhaps you ask that question about yourself. “There seem to be godly people here. I’m not like them. Do I really belong?”Today Jesus shows us that the Church is for all people. All of us regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or social status—have the same problem of sin. And we all have the same Savior. Anyone who comes to Christ’s Church and cries out “Lord, have mercy!” is welcome.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Reach Out To Near And Far," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Believe God’s Plan That Ends In Glory
Wherever faith clings to the promises of God, doubt is always lingering. Doubt asks the serpent’s garden question, “Did God really say?” People doubt God’s care, God’s promises, or God’s providence. The answer to doubt is not found in loud, dramatic demonstrations. The true answer to doubt is found in the still small voice of our Savior God whispering to us in his Word. Through Word and sacrament, Christ reaches out to us with nail-scarred hands, proof of his great love. Jesus gently says, “Why did you doubt?” Our faith is restored. Christians answer doubt with faith.Check out Pastor Hering’s sermon, “Believe God’s Plan That Ends In Glory,” to learn more!#faith #gospel #Jesus #Christ #Christian #sermon #church #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Bring Your Wants Down To Your Needs
The hardest times to trust God are the times we need him most. It’s easier to trust God when your job is going great, your health is fine, your relationships are fine, and your family is good. It’s easier to trust God when the sun is shining, but what happens when your life is suddenly overshadowed by dark days?When tragedy strikes, we may wonder if God continues to care for us. At those times, Christians do not despair like those who have no hope. Instead, Christians focus on certain foundational facts. We are chosen and adopted as God’s dear children. God provides us innumerable spiritual blessings and promises us an eternity of peace and joy. If we recognize those spiritual blessings, how can we doubt that God will give us everything we truly need at the right time? Christians trust God to provide.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Bring Your Wants Down To Your Needs," to learn more!#gospel #faith #sermon #God #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Wealthy In God!
What do you consider your life’s top priorities? Many people start with family and friends. Financial security and health follow closely. Reputation and recreation make the cut. How about faith? Is it the top priority? What if other priorities must be sacrificed to keep faith the top priority? The Bible helps Christians keep worldly wealth in perspective. It can buy the things of this world, things that rust and decay, but there is something more valuable. True wealth is spiritual wealth. It can be found only in God and his eternal blessings for us in Christ.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Wealthy In God," to learn more!#faith #gospel #sermon #Christ #Christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Are We Growing Wheat or Pulling Weeds?
The wheat that grows in the Middle East is a variety that looks much like wild grass or weeds. It is difficult to tell wheat and weeds apart until shortly before harvest time, when the wheat stalks develop a head containing the kernels of grain. Pulling the weeds out of a wheat field could lead to accidentally pulling up a fair amount of wheat. People need to wait for the harvest to separate wheat from weeds.Jesus uses that image to illustrate life this side of heaven. What makes Christians different? They are wheat planted by the Lord. Unbelieving evildoers are pictured as weeds. We might want God to take care of evil now, pulling up all the weeds. But he tells us to wait for the harvest of judgment day. So we live as wheat among weeds, being faithful, fruitful, and mindful of the coming harvest.Thank you Pastor Behringer for leading our service this week. Check out his sermon, "Are We Growing Wheat or Pulling Weeds?" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #Jesus #God #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Follow God's Plan To Build His Church
Planting seed by hand can be extraordinary. In your hand, the seed looks lifeless and insignificant. You put the seed into the soil, and suddenly, all by itself, the seed germinates and sprouts and reaches to the sun. Except when it doesn’t! Plant multiple seeds, and often only some will grow.The Bible describes Christians as planted by the Word. Why do some people grow in faith, and not others? What makes Christians different? The Bible describes the supernatural process by which God calls people to faith through the gospel. He promises that his Word always accomplishes his purpose. It is powerful all on its own, without our help. As we grow in faith, we give God thanks for the miracle of his work in our lives.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Follow God's Plan To Build His Church," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #God #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
The Government Is God's Servant
The Bible says Christians are different. Christians are people who believe in Jesus as their Savior. But they often look the same as those who do not believe in Jesus. How are Christians different? The answer is often something internal, attitudes or perspectives that come only from the work of the Holy Spirit in Word and sacrament.Ultimately, Christians are people who run to Christ for forgiveness because they have failed to live perfect lives. As we receive the mercy of Christ, it moves us to strive with all our being to do all the things that Jesus says Christians do, things that make Christians different.Check out Pastor Hering's most recent sermon, "The Government Is God's Servant!" #faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran
Keep God Number One
Not all love is good. It is self-destructive to love bad things. It is just as harmful to love good things in a bad order. For example, Pastor Hering loves it that the Oklahoma Sooners won the College World Series! But, if he love the Sooners more than he loved preparing for today’s worship that wouldn’t be good. Also, it would seem to be a good thing for a man to love his dog. But if he loves his dog more than he loves his wife, his “love” for both is disordered. For love to be healthy, it needs to be properly ordered.Christians love the people whom God has placed into their lives. But when those people desire something that God does not desire, Christians love and serve God above all. Properly ordered love leads us to be faithful to God and his Word. We love God above all because he first loved us.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Keep God Number One" to learn more!#faith #gospel #sermon #love #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
In The End, Keep The Faith
Believers in God and their ministers have always been persecuted. Religious leaders in Jerusalem tried to muzzle the truth, but they only succeeded in sending people to preach the Word throughout the land. The Roman Empire persecuted Christians with stakes and lions, but God’s Church exploded with growth. In Martin Luther’s day, both pope and emperor tried to limit the gospel movement that was spreading from Germany, but God led many people to speak his truth. God wants his people to keep the faith and preach the Word even in the face of opposition.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "In The End, Keep The Faith," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
In The Same Fashion, Share The Lord's Compassion
The Law was given through Moses. He was a marvelous leader of his people, but he could not take them to the Promised Land. The Law can never get God’s people to the promised land. Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. Joshua, the successor of Moses, defeated the enemies of the people and led them into the Promised Land. Jesus defeats our enemies and shepherds us as his flock. The gracious Gospel of forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus is the only way to the promised land of heaven. Jesus leads us all the way there.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "In The Same Fashion, Share The Lord's Compassion" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #Christianity #Jesus #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Follow Jesus To Real Satisfaction
They never forgot their past. Moses never forgot how he killed a man in a fit of anger. Paul never forgot how he had savaged the Church of God. Matthew never forgot how, as a tax collector for the Roman Empire, he was considered a traitor to his people.But God forgot their past. He forgave all their sins and called them to proclaim his mercy. Christians are sinners whom God has mercifully called. Only mercy can explain why Jesus brings people to faith and promises them salvation. Only grace can explain how he calls them to serve as they are able, even in the ministry of the gospel. God loves sinners.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Follow Jesus To Real Satisfaction" to learn more!#faith #gospel #sermon #Christ #christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Be Showered With The Triune God's Blessings
We believe in the triune God. He is the only true God. The festival of the Holy Trinity is a time to celebrate God revealing himself to us as one God in three persons. The triune God wants his people to teach this mystery in its biblical truth and purity. This festival of the Holy Trinity begins the second half of the Church Year with a proclamation of people being baptized and blessed in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, the only true God.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Be Showered With The Triune God's Blessings," to learn more!#gospel #faith #sermon #Christ #christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Jesus Pours Out His Spirit
When the disciples were distressed about Jesus ascending into heaven, he assured them, “It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7). That Advocate is the Holy Spirit. If Jesus had stayed in the grave, the Holy Spirit would have had no reason to enter the lives of disciples.But Jesus lives, and it makes a difference. The Spirit provides faith and purpose for life. Pentecost, the celebration of the special arrival of the Holy Spirit, is the third great festival of the Church, along with the Nativity and the Resurrection. Pentecost closes the fifty-day period after Easter and ends the festival half of the church year. The Church dresses in red on this day to commemorate the tongues of fire that marked the Spirit’s gift as well as the blood of the martyrs.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Jesus Pours Out His Spirit," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Trust The Ascended Lord Whose Suffering Led To Glory!
Without the resurrection of Jesus, my uncertainty can easily lead to anxiety. I am waiting for everything to turn out, and not knowing what will happen is much harder if I think I cannot rely on anyone. It’s been a long time since Jesus ascended into heaven. Sometimes I suffer. Has he forgotten about me? He lives, and it makes a difference. I know how my life will turn out, and that certainty about the future helps with life’s present difficulties. While I wait in the time between Christ’s ascension and his return on judgment day, I know that God will work everything out for my good.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Trust The Ascended Lord Whose Suffering Led To Glory!" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Stay Connected To The Only Way To Heaven
Without the resurrection of Jesus, I would have to wonder if he wasn’t just a human being. If my last view of him is a criminal crucified on a cross, he would look like someone to be rejected. He couldn’t even help himself, much less anyone else! But he lives, and it makes a difference. He is the only way to heaven. This gospel message is the most inclusive message in the world. The benefits of the resurrection of Jesus are meant for every man, woman, and child who has ever lived.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon "Stay Connected To The Only Way To Heaven," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #Jesus #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Listen To The Voice Of The Good Shepherd
Without the resurrection of Jesus, I would have to choose my own direction in life. I would be terrible at it, because, like a sheep, I can generally see only what’s in front of me at the moment, and I get myself into trouble. It is especially difficult for me to look far into my future as planned by Jesus. If he had not risen from the dead, I would be on my own. But he lives, and it makes a difference. I have the reliable direction of the Good Shepherd. He feeds us with his Word. He protects us from the roaring lion, Satan. He is leading us into the green pastures of eternal life. For centuries, the Church has observed this Fourth Sunday of Easter to celebrate that Jesus lives to be our Good Shepherd.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Listen To The Voice Of The Good Shepherd," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Cherish Good Heart-Burn From Jesus
Without the resurrection of Jesus, I would have little hope for the future. That’s how the disciples felt after this death. “We hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel” (Luke 24:19). Their hope for a better life had died along with Jesus. But he lives, and it makes a difference. My hope for the future is restored. I have victory over the feeling of hopelessness, because the one who heals me and gives me a better life is himself alive. He lives to restore my hope.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Cherish Good Heart-Burn From Jesus," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Trust Jesus Who Appeared To His Disciples
Without the resurrection of Jesus, I would have to wonder whether anything he said was true. Thomas had been taught and trained by Christ himself. He heard Jesus predict his death and resurrection. Even after hearing the eyewitness testimony of friends, Thomas still had doubts about the resurrection of Jesus. But he lives, and it makes a difference. Today I have great comfort as someone with doubts about Christ’s promises in my life. Jesus engages me with continuing assurances in Word and sacrament. I have proof. I have peace.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Trust Jesus Who Appeared To His Disciples" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
A Promise To Go With
I recognize that I need to be saved. When Jesus said, “No one can enter the kingdom of God,” that included me. I do not deserve God’s blessing. But long ago, God declared that I would be blessed by a descendant of Abraham who turned out to be Jesus. The blessing is salvation. I receive that salvation by faith in Jesus as my Savior. The good news is that faith is also God’s gift, imparted to me through the gospel.Thank you to Pastor Schone from Calvary Lutheran Church for leading our service! Check out his sermon, "A Promise To Go With," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Recognize A Far More Important Ministry
I recognize that I am spiritually blind when I don’t know Jesus. I cannot see the world as it really is. I am tempted to see what is harmful as good, and what is good as meaningless. I cannot see the danger that lurks behind every temptation. I realize that Jesus gave physical sight to the blind. But he also gives me spiritual vision. He said, “I am the light of the world.” He comes to shine his light into my darkened eyes so that I see Him and live.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Recognize A Far More Important Ministry," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Jesus Came To Quench Thirst
I recognize my deep spiritual thirst. I long for a good relationship with God and for everlasting life. I am tempted to satisfy that deep thirst with worldly things, a strategy doomed to failure. I realize that my thirst is satisfied only by the one who said, “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.” Jesus meets my greatest need.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Jesus Came To Quench Thirst," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Jesus #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Live For Two Worlds
I recognize the danger of death. I am tempted to wonder whether my life was worth it if I do not leave a legacy or live on in the memories of my loved ones after I die. When my soul separates from my body, will I also be eternally separated from God in hell? Jesus promises much better. He promises life. One day I will be reunited with my believing loved ones, both soul and body. I will live with Jesus forever in eternity. Jesus raised people from the dead to prove his power over death. That’s exactly the power I need.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Live For Two Worlds," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
It's Out Of Control
I recognize my inability to defend myself against spiritual enemies. The world is against me, but I look for ways to imitate it. I try to master my own sinful flesh, but I recognize desires in myself that war against my soul. And when it comes to the devil, I fall into temptation again and again. My impending death proves that I have sinned.I realize that what I really need is a champion. God the Father realized it too. He sent his Son to be my Savior. Through the obedience of the Son of God, I have victory over my enemies.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "It's Out Of Control," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #Jesus #sermon #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
See Jesus For Who He Really Is
Jesus was a real human being, and he looked like it when he taught his disciples. But one day atop a high mountain, Jesus gave his disciples a glimpse of his glory as the Son of God. After he came down from the mountain, Jesus went to Jerusalem to suffer and die. It is good for us to view Jesus in glory on the mountain. It prepares us for Lent, and it prepares us for life.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "See Jesus For Who He Really Is," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #jesuschrist #jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Consider The Bright Light Of Christ
The prophet Isaiah vividly described humanity as “people walking in darkness.” Then he foretold that a light would shine on them. Enveloped by sin, suffering, and death, we find our minds and hearts clouded. But Jesus is revealed as the promised light. He shines his light by preaching repentance and the good news of the kingdom. Our Savior is the Light of the world, and we reflect his light onto everyone around us.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Consider The Bright Light Of Christ," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #christianity #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Be Hungry After Christ's Righteousness
You may not feel blessed when you are hungry or insulted or mourning the death of a loved one. You may not be in the mood to boast when you feel foolish, weak, or lowly. But knowing your difficulties, Jesus still chose you to be his own. He gives you many gifts, and he calls you blessed.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Be Hungry After Christ's Righteousness," to learn more!#gospel #Christ #Christian #faith #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
The Commissioning Of The Anointed One
“Christ” is not the family name of Jesus. It is a title. The Greek word “Christ” and the Hebrew word “Messiah” both mean the same thing: “The Anointed One.” Anointing was the practice of pouring liquid over the head of someone to signify selection for some special task. When the Lord had someone anointed, he also poured his Spirit over them. It was the fulfillment of promises made over centuries.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "The Commissioning Of The Anointed One," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Wear The Garments Of Salvation
We continue the Christmas celebration of the dawning of the light of all mankind. When the sun rises, we can see things that we haven’t seen before. When Christ the Savior is born, the light of new revelation breaks over the world. When the Son rises, we can clearly see the grace of God, our Redeemer.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Wear The Garments Of Salvation," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Take Your Seat On The Flight To Egypt
Christmas holidays mean family time, often with extended family travel and visits. Meals are prepared, gifts are given, memories are made. But the memories might not all be good. Sometimes there are Christmas hurts or even tragedies. We live in a world still affected by sin.The sinfulness of the world cannot rob us of the peace God intends to bring through his Son. Christ the Savior is born, and through his life, God brings us into the family. He gives us the rights of redeemed sons and daughters, the privileges of inheritance.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Take Your Seat On The Flight To Egypt," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
The Moment Than Changed Us Forever
From eternity, Jesus has been God, holy and majestic. When we look tenderly at the holy infant, we are looking at the same God who once told the prophet Moses, “No one may see me and live.” Yet, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds all saw their holy God and survived. How? God became human, hiding his glory within flesh, so that he could come to us without instilling fear or dread.A famous theologian once said, “We are to think of the Lord’s birth, where the Word became flesh, not as a past event which we recall, but as a present reality on which we gaze.” It’s not that Christ the Savior was born. It’s that Christ the Savior is born.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "The Moment Than Changed Us Forever," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #Christmas #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Christmas Isn’t Confined To A Manger
Families cherish their Christmas traditions. Year after year, they decorate the tree with the same ornaments, play the same music, bake the same Christmas cookies. Without asking, family members know when they will open presents. If you try to change your family’s Christmas traditions, you might be in trouble! When it comes to family Christmases, people generally don’t like things to change.Because our celebration of Christmas has so many unchanging traditions, we might miss the fact that the birth of Christ the Savior meant radical change for the world. Would the change be an improvement or another step in decline? The angels answer the question. They don’t sing “Watch out for impending doom!” They sing “glory” and “peace,” praising God with alleluias!Check out Pastor Hering's Christmas Eve sermon, "Christmas Isn’t Confined To A Manger," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christmas #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Today, A Savior Has Been Born!
Jesus came to defeat our enemies of sin, death and the devil. That gives us Christmas peace forever. Check out Pastor Hering's message, "Today, A Savior Has Been Born!" from our Family Christmas service, to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Find Delight In The Desert
The Messiah is an important person. “Messiah” is the same word as “Christ” or “Anointed One.” He is someone who has been anticipated for a long time. Now we look at a time when his arrival is imminent! The historic Christian Church gave Latin titles to each Sunday. They titled the Third Sunday in Advent “Gaudete,” which means “Rejoice!” As we reach the midway point of Advent, we ask Christ to empower us to do just that. We rejoice because God fulfills all his promises in Jesus.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Find Delight In The Desert," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Repent, For The Kingdom Is Near
The judge is an important person. You stand when they enter the courtroom. What they say must be obeyed. If you are the one on trial, their determinations make a big difference in how your life will continue.You might be quite nervous if the judge is about to arrive. John invited people to turn their nervousness to repentance. He says that the arrival of the Judge is imminent, and the kingdom of heaven is near! You are invited to hear John, repent, and believe the good news of the coming Savior.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Repent, For The Kingdom Is Near" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #Lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx #sermon
Rejoice! The King Is Near!"
The king is an important person. His arrival at our place can mean something quite different to us depending on our relationship with him. We might fear his arrival if we expect him to punish us. We might welcome his arrival if we expect him to validate us. Either way, we expect his arrival to be a big deal. How would it make us feel if we heard that his arrival would be informal and familiar? Advent marks the start of a new Church Year. We begin at the end, watching King Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey colt, knowing full well that he will be killed before the end of the week. The events of Palm Sunday serve as a microcosm for all Jesus’ work, proving the King of the universe was willing to humble himself and endure anything for our salvation. That is precisely why Christ came. That is why we anticipate his imminent arrival not with worry but with joy.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Rejoice! The King Is Near!" to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx #sermon
Anticipate Christ's Coming With Joy
The Church has marked the passing of yet another Church Year, waiting for its Lord to return. How long will we have to wait and watch for Jesus to return? We do not know. Jesus said he would return soon. However, the definition of “soon” for the One who has no beginning or end will naturally differ from ours. Jesus returns, it will take us by surprise. So, how do believers avoid growing lethargic? How do we remain ready and watchful for Christ’s return? Our Savior points us to his Scriptures.The promises Jesus has made us this past year—promises that give us comfort and hope and purpose—were not merely spoken. Jesus ensured those promises were written down in Scripture. As we see in Scripture all the promises that Christ has fulfilled, there is discernable effect. The Spirit creates within us an eager anticipation regarding the Scriptural promises that are as-of-yet unfilled. While we cannot be certain when the day of fulfillment will come, we are completely confident of what that day will bring. No matter how many years we must mark, we watch with eager anticipation, and we pray, “Amen! Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Anticipate Christ's Coming With Joy," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #christianfaith #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Jesus Is Coming And He's Bringing Hell And Heaven With Him
If you were making a list of things that might make society more peaceful, would you include “more judgment”? Likely not. Many people assume that judgement leads to conflict, not peace. However, a lack of judgment is a luxury many cannot afford. Our world is full of victims of abuse, violence, and oppression. In many cases this evil goes unnoticed and unpunished. A future without the hope of judgment means no peace. If there is no hope of judgment, victims would be driven either into total despair or to be consumed by the desire for revenge. A future that includes judgment, however, gives those who are wronged the peace of knowing that one day there will be perfect justice.When we are horribly wronged, what are our options? Taking matters into our own hands? Despair? Jesus provides a better option. Trust that he will keep his promise to return, bringing judgment. The effect of that promise? We have peace, knowing that every wrong will eventually be righted by the one righteous Judge.Check out Pastor Behringer's sermon, "Jesus Is Coming And He's Bringing Hell And Heaven With Him," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
You Bet Jesus Notices You
King David once said that guilt makes you feel like your very bones are rotting. Guilt makes you feel weak . . . sick. Guilt can make it hard to focus on anything else . . . hard to function. And guilt is an inescapable fact of life. Everyone carries guilt about something. Worse, our efforts to deal with guilt—minimizing our mistakes, making excuses for our sin—don’t help, but only make us feel worse. What alleviates the burden of guilt? When the service begins, text this link to a friend to join us!Just one thing—God’s gift of grace. Christ’s love is undeserved and unconditional. He pardons every sin. This is the entire reason Jesus came to earth. This was his mission—to give the gift of grace! When we receive that gift, our guilt melts. Left in its place is the joy of our salvation.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "You Bet Jesus Notices You," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
You Are In The Hall Of Faith
God grants the status of “saint” (which means “holy one”) to every believer. It might appear that status is of little practical value. If you achieve the status “billionaire” or “celebrity” or “senator” your life is going to be vastly different than most other people, most likely better. But if God calls you a saint, just like everyone else, you will struggle with trials, temptations, and sin. Being a saint does not make life easier. In some ways it When the service begins, text this link to a friend to Join us! 3 makes life more difficult as we struggle against a world that is hostile toward Christ. This might lead us to ask, “Is it really that big a deal that God calls us saints?”For centuries, the Church has answered that question by celebrating the Festival of All Saints. This week we get a peek at the saints who have died and now live in the glory of Christ’s light. Through eyes of faith, we see the saints enjoying glory in the place where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:1-6). We realize what a precious gift this status of saint actually is. We understand that soon enough we shall join all the saints in that glorious heavenly city. And that gives us amazing stamina to face the challenges of this world with the strength Christ gives to all his saints.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "You Are In The Hall Of Faith," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #christian #Jesus #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Christ WITH Us! As He has in the past through grace alone, faith alone, and scripture alone — so He will be with us into the future!Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," to learn more!#reformation #faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
So Just Say This
How would you like to change a person's life forever? Just say this: Because of Jesus you have a New Status—forgiven! Because of Jesus you have a New Life—so live what God has made you. Because of Jesus you have a New Work—that will change a person for eternity! It’s Christ Through Us! So, Just Say It.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "So Just Say This," to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #Christianity #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Examine Your Relationship With God
Our synod held it’s convention in New Ulm, Minnesota this past August focusing on, “Christ Through Us.” That can only be understood properly if we first establish the concept of “Christ For Us” (Christus pro nobis in Latin). Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection were not for his own benefit but specifically for humanity’s salvation. He lived a perfect life, fulfilling God’s law on behalf of sinners, and his death was a substitutionary atonement for our sins. The phrase “for us” underscores the idea that salvation is entirely a gift, granted by God through Christ’s actions, and is not earned by human effort or merit. “Christ For Us” is central to the Bible’s explanation of justification, where believers are declared righteous before God solely on the basis of Christ’s work, received through faith. Christ’s vicarious suffering and resurrection assure Christians that God’s wrath against sin has been fully satisfied, and through Christ, we are reconciled to God. Today let’s pause to give thanks to the Lord for our denomination that teaches the gospel of Jesus Christ with remarkable clarity. We have not done anything to deserve this blessing. Instead, Christ has done everything for us. Confident in what he has done for us, let us pray for another 175 years of gospel blessings!Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Examine Your Relationship With God", to learn more!#gospel #faith #Christ #Christian #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx
Service With A Smile
As someone rises through the ranks at work, there are typically benefits: higher salary, more authority, better benefits. However, there is often a corresponding increase in responsibility: longer hours, more meetings, raised expectations. So, if someone is offered a promotion, they might ask, “Is this worth it?” It is similar in God’s kingdom. As our faith grows, there are obvious benefits: the comfort of knowing you are a redeemed and loved child of God, the peace of knowing your eternity is secure. However, increased faith also increases duty. There are ever more opportunities for service. This week, Jesus has sharp words for those who want the benefits of being Christian but would shirk those responsibilities. However, to lead us to take up those responsibilities, our Savior doesn’t threaten or cajole. He helps us see that while increased faith increases duty, increased duty increases delight. The believer knows he serves the One who came to serve us first. Just as Christ’s service brought him great joy, so does our service to others.Check out Pastor Hering's sermon, "Service With A Smile," to learn more!#faith #gospel #Christ #Christian #church #lutheran #welslutheran #garlandtx